Well, I did consider the route you've mentioned, but I blew my CRX engine recently and I have to replace the engine. Since I have to do a swap anyways, I thought I might get something I'll be happy with in the long run. It does already have a set of 15in Rotas and some Azenis tires, it's gutted, so the suspension is at least decent for the time bieng. Of course

Otherwise, I do try to do track events often with my VW Passat, which is pretty much like the car you mentioned. It has f/r swaybars, it's gutted, has around 221whp (from my last dyno, but it's around 2,900 lbs so it's somewhat underpowered). I'm also using a Koni Yellow/Eibach setup w/ 17x8.5 SSR Comps & Kumho Ecsta V700 rubber. I definetly agree it's a great idea to start out learning with something like that, but I feel confident I can move on to something quicker.